Describe how a psychoanalytic reading of Joseph Conrad’s Heart of Darknesswould differ from a feminist reading. Select a passage from Conrad’s text as a basis for the comparison. What are the benefits of a psychoanalytic reading of the passage? Of a feminist reading? What are the disadvantages of a psychoanalytic reading? Of a feminist reading? This discussion will allow you to become familiar with these theories and apply them in a less formal, interactive environment.

Respond to at least two of your classmates. Identify differences between your application of the feminist and psychoanalytic theories and theirs. What elements of the text (e.g., plot, imagery, and character development) did your colleagues focus on? How did the feminist or the psychoanalytic approach contribute to an understanding of these elements?